The Federal Government has officially approved the construction of a private airstrip at Canaanland, the global headquarters of the Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel, in Ota, Ogun State. This move, authorized by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is set to revolutionize travel for church leaders and worshippers.
The confirmation came from Keyamo’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, who stated, “Yes, the minister approved the airstrip. It is a private airstrip, and that I can confirm.”
Bishop David Oyedepo, the Founder of Winners Chapel and Chancellor of Covenant University, broke the news to his congregation during a special Tehillah Night at Covenant University Chapel. The announcement came during a thanksgiving service celebrating his 70th birthday, further adding to the significance of the event.
Bishop Oyedepo expressed his excitement, noting that the new airstrip would allow him and other church members with private planes to fly directly from Canaanland. “I won’t need to fly a helicopter to the airport. I can leave from here to wherever I am going. Members with their planes will have a place to land and park,” he shared.
The airstrip is expected to greatly enhance transportation for worshippers and visitors, especially during large church events like Shiloh, which draw attendees from around the world. This development is anticipated to position Canaanland as a key hub for faith tourism in Nigeria.
Bishop Oyedepo also highlighted the achievements of Covenant University graduates, some of whom are now accomplished pilots flying him on his travels. “Won’t you be glad to know that there are some captains who are graduates of Covenant University that fly me?” he proudly announced.
He further encouraged the youth to discover God’s plan for their lives and pursue it, using Covenant University as a platform for success. “Young people, don’t play away your life. You don’t have a spare,” he advised.
This approval comes as Nigeria continues to address challenges in its aviation sector. With Keyamo at the helm, the ministry is taking steps to modernize infrastructure and foster private-sector collaboration. The Canaanland airstrip could serve as a model for future private airstrips, boosting regional connectivity and development.
